Unions respond to US announcement on Paris climate change agreement

The international trade union movement is speaking out with deep concern following US President Donald Trump’s announcement about US withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement. This morning, the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), which represents 181 million workers in 163 countries, released a statement outlining the ways Trump’s decision puts workers and human rights at risk globally.

Canadian Labour Congress President, Hassan Yussuff, added that the rest of the world must continue to play an active role in fighting climate change and transitioning workers to good, green jobs.

“While President Trump’s decision on Paris represents a set-back to united action on climate change, it doesn’t change the fact that the rest of the world is moving forward. Canadian government, civil society and industry recognize the need to adapt to a low-carbon economy,” said Yussuff.

“Canada should continue to face the challenges of climate change head on, knowing that in the long run, this makes us more competitive within North America and globally,” Yussuff added.